The open podcast ecosystem is dying — here’s how to save it. - Divinations

If the open podcast ecosystem wants to compete, they have to figure out a way to implement ideas like these. They cannot stay stuck in the status quo. This currently feels impossible, but fortunately, they have a good example to look up to: the web.

Back in the late 90’s, webpages were very different than they are now. CSS was barely a thing. JavaScript was totally different. There were no advanced technologies like WebGL and websockets. If you wanted the best user experience, you had to use a proprietary system like Flash.

But, eventually, the W3C and companies like Apple and Google got their act together, and the open web caught up. The web standards movement won.

Related to what I’ve been pondering this week, Nathan Baschez has a thoughtful, excellent piece on what open podcasting can do to compete with exclusive shows as more and more move to these closed platforms.

I am way, way more interested in the items listed in this article happening rather than arguing til next decade on what technically is or isn’t a “podcast”.

Also, I can’t help but think about podcast clip sharing that Overcast added last year. This was a huge improvement to sharing podcast moments on social media! I think I use them more than most people, but it’s so refreshing to be able to share my favorite moments and have people hear them without needing to make sure they have the right podcast app installed, wait for the episode to download, and hope that it took them to the right time stamp. More of this, please!